CHAPTER2
Theo
It was still early,but Theo was already hard at work at Neptune’s Reef. Since he was pretty much in charge, he always arrived early to check things out and see what needed to be done. His goal was to make this bar the best on the ship. If he could prove himself here, maybe one day he’d be promoted and would manage a group of bars on one of the cruise line’s ships.
He checked over the bar’s supply of the various alcohols they served. He knew from experience what bottles they’d need more of before the day was over and had a list prepared. He also had gone over the other items the bar would need: fruit garnishes for drinks, cocktail napkins, straws, and more. Both Gabe and Anton were scheduled to be there when the bar opened, and he knew that Gabe would show up early. He’d put him to work slicing some extra fruit so that they’d have a ready supply for the bar’s busy times.
Sure enough, Gabe walked through the door to the service area at ten thirty. The bar wouldn’t open for another hour.
“Good morning, Gabriel,” Theo said, waving. It was their ritual to greet each other formally at the beginning of each day.
“Good morning to you, Theodor.” Gabe smiled. “I didn’t see you at breakfast this morning.”
“I woke early and couldn’t sleep. Carlos doesn’t know how to get ready quietly in the morning.” Carlos shared a cabin with Theo and worked in the Trident Buffet almost every morning, so Theo woke earlier than he’d like most days.
“You really need a more considerate roommate,” Gabe said.
“Well, his contract’s over in a couple of months; maybe I’ll get lucky next time.”
“So,” Gabe went on, changing the subject, “what do you need me to do?”
“Can you start by cutting up some extra lemons and limes, please? It’s a sea day today, so it will probably be busy this afternoon, and I’d like to be prepared.”
“Of course,” Gabe answered cheerfully. “It’s also Christmas Eve, so I imagine the passengers are gonna want to celebrate tonight.” He pulled out a knife and cutting board and set to work.
Theo put his arm around Gabe’s shoulders. “I just want you to know, I wasn’t making fun of you last night. About your matchmaking skills, I mean.” Theo paused, not sure if he should continue. “You’re right; everyone does deserve love, and I think it’s sweet that you try to help when you can. You’re a good man, Gabe.” The color rose in Gabe’s cheeks.
“Thanks,” Gabe said shyly.
Theo stared at Gabe, thinking of how adorable he looked, blushing like that.What would it feel like to kiss those lips? Would they be as soft as they look?
“I don’t think I answered your question last night.”
“Which question was that?”
“About whether or not I found someone to um, help,” Gabe replied.
“Ah, that’s right.” Theo smiled. “So did you?”
“I may have seen a couple of possibilities.” He smirked. “Do you remember the guy with the blond hair that was wearing a bright-coral button-down? He came in with two other guys. His name is Stefan.”
“Yeah, I remember him. They sat near the piano.”
“He’s the one.” Gabe nodded. “I’m feeling something about him. I need to be on my game tonight to see if I can figure him out.”
Anton walked in, and Theo directed him to disinfect all the tables in the bar.
Once Gabe was finished packing up the fruit he’d prepared, he refilled the containers that held straws and replenished the stacks of logoed napkins around the bar.
* * *
It had been a verylong day, even longer than yesterday. So long, in fact, that Theo skipped an after-work drink so that he could crash in his cabin. Gabe seemed a bit disappointed when Theo said no, but he couldn’t keep his eyes open any longer.
Carlos was fast asleep when Theo opened the door, so he quickly washed his face and brushed his teeth, then stripped to his skivvies and crawled under the covers. He was out in a matter of seconds.
He woke several hours later to find Carlos still asleep, snoring softly. He knew he wouldn’t sleep anymore, not with a full bladder crying for relief, so he grabbed a fresh pair of underwear and padded to the bathroom to take care of business. By the time he was done showering and shaving, Carlos was awake and scrolling through something on his phone.
“Good morning, Carlos. Merry Christmas,” Theo said in a monotone voice.
